City Manager Salary in Houston, TX
How much does a city manager make in Houston? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Houston's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how city manager salaries break down across different pay periods in Houston.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $85,589 | $144,950 | $200,168 |
| Monthly | $7,132 | $12,079 | $16,681 |
| Biweekly | $3,292 | $5,575 | $7,699 |
| Weekly | $1,646 | $2,788 | $3,849 |
| Hourly | $41 | $70 | $96 |
Houston vs National Average
How Houston's city manager salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Houston
About City Manager
Overview
Oversee city government operations and administration.
Education
Bachelor's degree in Public Administration or related field
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +14% over the next decade
Compare Cities: City Manager Salary
See City Manager salaries in other top cities.
Financial Tools to Explore
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City Manager Salary in Houston, TX — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a city manager in Houston, TX is $144,950 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 99. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Houston's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level city manager professionals in Houston can expect to earn around $85,589 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level city managers earning approximately $200,168 per year. This represents a 134% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Houston's cost of living index of 99 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Houston are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $154,120, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a city manager's salary in Houston typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,400 per month, housing represents about 11.6% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
City Managers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 14% over the next decade. In Houston, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.